Fish Consumption Advisory An advisory issued by a government agency
recommending that the public limit their consumption of fish. Advisories are issued
to limit exposure to toxic substances in the fish that
have the potential to impact human health. A fish consumption advisory is prepared
annually by the Minnesota Department of Health. Fish caught
from selected lakes and streams are tested for toxic substances (mercury,
sometimes PCBs and dioxins).
Many of the lakes tested have restrictions on fish consumption due to high mercury
levels. PCBs and dioxin levels in fish have also resulted in suggested restrictions
on fish consumption in some lakes and streams. Other states and the federal government
also issue advisories.